- Feb 4, 2013
- 28,175
If he is pretty sure he bought a banned rifle, putting a new barrel on it will not save any headache, even if that were legal. Which it isnt in all likelihood. Both the FFL and the buyer are in hot water. MDSP could theoretically show up on his (her) doorstep and take the rifle. That happened a few years ago with some rifles sold out of a VA FFL. ATF audited the shop, and MDSP showed up. MDSP could take the rifle, then the judge would sort out the legality of the barrel swap, some years later. The legal fees will far outstrip the value of the rifle. Best case, MDSP makes you do a 77r, but that is questionable since 77r only applies to legal, regulated, firearms. FFL does not want to be on the hook for selling a banned rifle either. Puts their license potentially at risk. My 0.02, go back to the FFL. Maybe there is more to the story.
NOT true.
MSP showed up and asked the owner if they would like to register the rifle in MD. They did not take them.
Of course, having a couple of uniformed officers on your doorstep is a bit intimidating.